An African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain, Austin Okai, has called on supporters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi to stop the ongoing media exchanges between their camps, warning that the escalating rhetoric could further deepen political tensions ahead of future elections.
In a statement released on Friday, Okai stated that the growing animosity between the two groups is eroding opposition unity and may jeopardize continuing efforts to resolve the party’s leadership conflict, which is now being heard in court.
As the race for the ADC presidential ticket heats up, supporters of Atiku and Obi have recently launched an intensive media battle.
Okai asked Atiku and Obi to caution their supporters and establish clear parameters for directing their efforts toward common goals rather than internal conflicts.
The statement read, “We are at the Supreme Court, patiently praying and waiting for a favorable outcome that will return our party to us, yet the supporters of these two gladiators are engaged in a proxy media war.
“The ongoing media hostilities between these two camps are not just unnecessary; they are a direct threat to the ADC coalition.
“We cannot afford a house divided against itself while we are in the middle of a critical legal and political struggle.”
Okai emphasized that the coalition’s primary focus should remain on the court process aimed at “rescuing” the ADC.
He warned that while supporters exchange social media attacks, political opponents will be monitoring and may exploit alliance splits.
“What is important to us right now is the legal battle to secure the party’s mandate. Every distraction in the media gives our opponents the upper hand and weakens our collective stance,” the statement added.
Okai also expressed fear that the continuous toxic media battle would make reconciliation following the primaries impossible.
He warned that the insults and divisions being generated now could lead to long-term hostility, impeding efforts to unite the coalition ahead of the general election.
“If we do not stop this now, the damage will be permanent. You cannot spend months destroying each other and then expect to hold hands once a candidate emerges. This media war must end for the sake of the ADC and the future of Nigeria,” he concluded.
